Hi Merv,
I learned by viewing a video that came with the welder and reading a couple books on metallurgy and welding techniques. Then I started practicing with scrap steel. In an afternoon I was a petty decent welder.
There are many welders to choose from which can make selection a bit intimidating. Here are a few ideas/tips:
- MIG is a relatively inexpensive and versatile tool. You'll end up using more than you think.
- Invest in name brand welder. Getting parts down the road from an off brand manufacturer may be impossible.
- You may prefer going with a unit that uses 220 as opposed to 110. (Not sure what standard current/phase you use down under) You'll be able to weld thicker metal and run longer.....
- ......go with the highest amp/duty cycle that fits your budget.
- Go with gas not flux core. Flux is very messy with less precise welds.
- You can use straight Argon for most everything. You can go with a C02/Aron mix or you can use straight C02 (Less clean weld/lots of spatter).
- If you weld galvanized steel be aware that the fumes are very toxic. You should weld in a well ventilated area anyway.
- As the cost of the welder goes up the adjustability of the feed and current (heat) become more precise and flexible.
- You can weld aluminum but feeding the aluminum wire through the long feed tube up to the gun is typically unreliable. A gun feed/reel makes this more productive but more expensive.
Some related pelican threads:
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/showthread.php?threadid=137862&highlight=welding
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/showthread.php?threadid=187330&highlight=welding